Jana is not a place that announces itself. The road from Naggar winds up through deodar and pine, past apple orchards and a few houses, and then it simply ends in a village. From there a short path leads to a waterfall hidden in the trees.
It is the kind of trip you take when you want to slow down.
The way there
- From Naggar. Take the road past the castle and the art gallery. Jana lies roughly 12 km beyond Naggar, and about 30 km or so from Manali, depending on the route.
- By bus or car. A few local buses run, and taxis are easy to find. Check timings before you plan the return.
- Travel time. Allow up to two hours from Manali each way.
The waterfall
From Jana village a path of about 30 minutes leads to the waterfall, which is around 30 ft high and falls in two stages with wooden bridges and viewing spots. A small pool at the base invites a quick dip in warm months.
The flow changes with the season. In and after the monsoon it is strong, and in dry months it can be thin, so you may find only a trickle. Winter brings snow and ice to the surrounding forest.
Food and village life
A few simple dhabas near the falls serve local meals such as siddu, makki roti, rajma and red rice, often made with ingredients from nearby fields. Eating here is part of the visit, so give yourself time to sit down and talk.
Staying safe
- Slippery rocks. Wet stones near the falls are slippery. Take care near the edge.
- Weather. Avoid the road after heavy rain, when landslides can occur.
- Daylight. Aim to be back on the main road before dark.
Making a day of it
Start in Naggar with the castle and the Roerich museum, drive up to Jana for the walk and lunch, and return via a village stop. Read about quiet villages like Chachogi and the longer list of hidden places in Kullu and Manali.
Plan a slow day around Naggar
We can arrange a driver and route for Naggar, Jana and nearby villages.